The Doctrine of Discovery

The Doctrine of Discovery refers to a principle established in the 15th century, primarily through papal bulls and legal decisions, which legitimized the claim of European explorers to territories inhabited by Indigenous peoples. It asserted that land not inhabited by Christians could be claimed by European powers. This doctrine supported colonial expansion and justified the dispossession of Indigenous lands, often resulting in long-lasting impacts on native populations and their rights. It has been widely criticized for its role in colonialism and the ongoing struggles for Indigenous sovereignty and recognition today.